It’s over: Rockets lose 105-99

The Hawks, who had lost consecutive games to Chicago (106-81) and San Antonio (103-96), whipped up on the Rockets. Joe Johnson led the way with 31 points and seven assists, but the Hawks got outstanding balance, with guys like Josh Smith (20 points, 10 rebounds), Marvin Williams (20 points), ZaZa Pachulia (12 points, eight rebounds) and Josh Childress (11 points, eight rebounds) all chipping in.

The Rockets got 37 points from T-Mac, 21 from Rafer Alston and Juwan Howard, and nine points and 12 rebounds from Dikembe Mutombo. But Shane Battier, Luther Head and Bonzi Wells were virtual no-shows, combining for seven points on 2-for-14 shooting.

The difference in this game was foul shooting. The Hawks were 28 of 40 while th Rockets attempted only 23 (making 17). Second-chance points were critical, too, with the Hawks finishing the game with a 19-8 advantage in that department. The Rockets now have lost five of their last six games at Phillips Arena. Go figure.

It’s on to Orlando for another young team, one that is better than the Hawks.